Archbishop Kaziimba condemns elections violence, calls for tolerance, mutual respect

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Church of Uganda archbishop, the Most Rev. Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has asked political actors, leaders, security agencies, and all Ugandans to be committed to peace and unity. 

He has also condemned the subculture of violence and intolerance that has characterised the ongoing political campaigns. He appealed to the security operatives to be true to their constitutional obligation of protecting the life and human dignity of all Ugandans.

“As a nation, we are looking ahead to a new year that includes national elections. I call upon all political actors, leaders, security agencies, and all of you fellow citizens to commit yourself to peaceful, free, and fair elections. We strongly condemn all forms of brutality and violence, especially against unarmed citizens. Security agencies are called to protect life and human dignity, not to violate them. Dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect must guide political engagement so that the electoral process remains peaceful and credible. Uganda belongs to all of us, and peace is our shared responsibility,” Kaziimba said.

He was delivering his Christmas Message (2025) at his palace in Namirembe, Rubaga Division, Kampala city on December 18 (2025).

Quoting the messianic prophecy of Isaiah, Kaziimba referred to the newborn child Jesus as the Prince of peace, the reason why the festive season should be a special time for Christians and all Ugandans to renew their joy, love and commitment to peace and human solidarity.

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light… For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

(Isaiah 9:1–6). Christmas is a sacred and joyful season in which we reflect on the miraculous birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace and the Light of the World. He was born of a virgin, reminding us that nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37). By His Word, God created all things out of nothing (Genesis 1:1–2).”

“As we celebrate His birth, we pray that the light of Christ will shine in our hearts, transforming our lives to reflect His character. May people everywhere receive the mercy and grace made available through His atoning sacrifice on the Cross,” Kaziimba added.

In the latter part of his message, the Church of Uganda Prelate encouraged Ugandans to be faithful stewards of the environment.  

“Environmental degradation continues to expose our communities to disasters such as floods and landslides. I urge all Ugandans to protect forests, wetlands, and fragile ecosystems. Environmental conservation is not optional; it is a Christian responsibility and an act of obedience to God’s call for faithful stewardship. It is a duty that God gave to all of us.’

“I extend my warm Christmas greetings to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Maama Janet Museveni, and their family; to all government leaders; my brother Bishops and Maamas; the clergy, lay readers, and all Christians of the Church of Uganda. I also convey my sincere greetings and prayers for a blessed Christmas to our Roman Catholic, Orthodox, and Pentecostal brethren, and to all who look in hope to the coming of Jesus Christ, our Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace,” Kaziimba said.

During the same function, Kaziimba also introduced the Church of Uganda theme for the new year (2026), which says: “Anchored in Christ for Unity, Stability, and Peace” (Ephesians 2:14–17).

“This theme calls us to remain firmly rooted in Christ, who is our peace and the foundation of true unity. In a world marked by division, uncertainty, and unrest, Christ alone brings reconciliation, stability, and hope. As individuals, families, churches, and as a nation, we are encouraged to draw our strength from Him and to live as agents of peace,” he said.

During the function, the visitors, who included journalists and the staff of the Church of Uganda Provincial Secretariat, were treated to captivating Christmas musical interludes by the brass ensemble of the Boys and Girls Brigade (Mengo Company 1).